PulmonaryFibrosisWales

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What Is Pulmonary Fibrosis ?

Pulmonary fibrosis means scarring of the lungs. In the outer parts of the lungs are very ting air sacks, called alveoli. These airsacs are the part of the lung where oxygen is absorbed. In pulmonary fibrosis the airsacs become steadily more damaged through scarring, so that the lungs are less able to absorb the oxygen that the body needs .

What is Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis ?

There is a group of people who develop pulmonary fibrosis for who there is no clear cause that can be identified. The word used to describe this type is "idiopatic" and people may therefore be given a diagnosis of idiopathic pulmoanry fibrosis (IPF) in the circumstances.

So what causes Pulmonary Fibrosis ?

Pulmonary fibrosis can be caused by several things. For example, some people who have arthritic condions; like rheumatoid arthritis or systemic sclerosis may develop pulmonary fibrosis as part of their condition. Some peopel who have worked on certain occupations, such as with high levels of asbestos dust may develop pulmonary fibrosis; this particular type od pulmonary fibrosis is called asbestosis. Sometimes certain drugs and even birds can cause other types of pulmonary fibrosis.

What Help is available ?

For more information about Pulmonary Fibrosis, and the support availble. There are a few options available